Reliability and 33 Years of Experience, Not looking good. Options

[Series9]

As the owner of an indy VAP shop, I have to say things are not looking good.

I started in VWs with my grandfather's '71 Super Beetle when I was 14. I would enthusiastically tell everyone (for a very long time) that German engineering was the way to go.

Fast forward 33 years. What I say now: "Do NOT buy any VAP built after 1998." Even before 1998, I now realize that drivers of American and Asian cars have generally had a more reliable experience.

My Vanagon is on it's third engine in ten years, my Jetta requires attention at least twice a month, my 914 (before it became the RS) required an engine replacement in the five years I owned it as a /4.......etc, etc.

I'm basically making money on the flaws of German engineering. Yes, it tends to be more precise than the others. BUT, that precision comes at a cost. Small flaws amplify themselves in such a way that the whole system will stop working harmoniously long before other manufacturer's vehicles.

What's my most reliable vehicle/mile/dollar/hour of maintenance? 2006 Ford F250 6.0 Diesel (and that truck has the "unreliable" 6.0).

If someone came to me tonight and said "you have to drive to Washington state and leave right now", I would get right in the Ford and not worry one second about making it there and back.

If I had to take the Vanagon or the Jetta, I would be highly stressed. Both cars are great, but great for within 100 miles.

That's it. I wanted it off my chest.

My VAP specialty will continue at S9, but I may be driving something else..... (IMG:style_emoticons/default/dry.gif)

[billh1963]

I agree with much of the OP's original post.

In my opinion there are two issues in play:
1. The pervasive (and ever increasing use of electronics)
2. Increasing use of plastic and/or cheap parts with little concern for reliability beyond the warranty

The first item is self explanatory. The more sensors, computers, switches, etc. the greater the chance for failure

The second item is tied to the pressure to deliver more and more functionality yet keep the costs down. It wasn't too long ago a "fully loaded" car meant PS, PB, PW, PDL, AC, CC and maybe a nice radio. Now, a "base car" has all that plus a bunch of safety features (air bags, ABS, traction control, etc), infotainment centers, remote start, and a host of other features that add cost and weight.

Something has to give....and that is the bullet proof reliability we used to see in BMW, MB, etc.

Does anyone think plastic radiators, water pump impellers, coolant pipes, manifolds, etc. are a good idea? (IMG:style_emoticons/default/barf.gif)